Chemical guidance

GGF has issued key guidance for companies in the glass and glazing industry that import chemicals from the EU.

John Agnew, GGF group managing director, said: “British companies importing chemicals from outside Great Britain must make themselves aware of the obligations under Reach and the impact of the transition to UK Reach.”

John said the federation was issuing guidance because there were risks that some companies may not be aware of.

The EU Reach Regulation was brought into UK law at the beginning of this year – known as UK Reach – with the necessary changes to make it operable in a domestic context.

UK Reach and the EU Reach regulations operate independently from each other. Companies that are supplying and purchasing substances, mixtures, or articles to and from the EU/EEA/Northern Ireland and Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) will need to ensure that the relevant duties are met under both pieces of legislation.

Under the Northern Ireland Protocol the EU Reach Regulation continues to apply to Northern Ireland, while UK Reach provides the regulatory framework for chemicals in Great Britain.

The GGF has produced guidance showing which companies are responsible for registering under UK Reach. The GGF has also covered the criteria needed for registration and the shown how UK Reach affects downstream companies buying from registered importers.

The GGF has created a flowchart to make it easier for companies to understand their obligations and pathways to registration.

James MacPherson, the GGF health, safety and environment manager who produced the new guidance, said: “If you are importing chemicals over one tonne into the UK from the EU or from outside Great Britain, it is a legal requirement to register that chemical. This will incur costs, time and administration.

“Our advice is, if you are purchasing chemicals from a company that is based outside of Great Britain then you should immediately engage with your provider and ask them what they are doing regarding UK Reach and then check what you have to do ensure you are operating legally.”